GRAFTON — With a special place in their hearts for education and a determination to help students continue their education after graduation, Little Feet Daycare and Preschool has created scholarship opportunities, and after many submissions, the winners have been announced.

Little Feet owners Julie and Daniel Dowdy first announced their newly created scholarship in July, revealing that it would provide various amounts of money for students at Grafton High School to use towards further education, at college level.

“Many students in Taylor County are starting their schooling here with us,” said Dowdy. “So helping some of these students after they graduate from public school means a lot to us. “

And because the Dowdy’s are also devoted to small town life, holding its ideals in high regard, they put a spin on the nomination process.

To apply for the Little Feet Fellowship, applicants were required to write a one-page essay, at least 250 words, describing what small town communities mean to them and what they can do to make an impact in their community. community.

For their efforts, three 2021 Grafton High School graduates would be named winners of the first-ever scholarship.

When the August 1 deadline expired, the Little Feet Scholarship Committee, made up of five parents, was satisfied with the number of applicants.

“The Little Feet Scholarship Committee would like to thank each of our GHS alumni who took the time to apply for the inaugural Little Feet Scholarship,” said Dowdy. “This committee is made up of parents who are hardworking and community members who have been able to watch these graduates grow up and take their next steps. We are therefore very happy and congratulate each of our winners.

Dowdy shared that he was happy to announce Andrew Gallo as the first place winner, taking home $ 1,000.

Gallo’s income will be used to further his education at Fairmont State University.

And when Katie Dunham sets out to advance her learning at Alderson Broaddus University, she will take with her a $ 500 prize after being named a finalist.

And finally, to round out the scholarship winners, Hannah Moats was awarded third place, $ 250.

All monies earned through the scholarship will be sent directly to the recipient’s future college.

“Ladies and gentlemen, thank you very much for loving our small town. Go do your best and remember everything Grafton has given you to prepare for this next step, ”said Dowdy. “Thank you for being proud and loving your hometown and mine. We can’t wait to see what you do as you move on with your life.